Here’s a guy who was widely dismissed and even ridiculed upon being cast in this iconic role, yet the consensus is he’s the best James Bond since Sean Connery and perhaps the closest one to author Ian Fleming’s original vision.

Craig’s performance is emotional, physical and charismatic as hell; you can't ask much more of an actor. His burning presence has helped the movie earn 95 percent positive reviews (according to RottenTomatoes.com) while grossing more than $400 million worldwide and reviving a stale series.

About the Pop Machine

"Pop Machine" is Chicago Tribune entertainment reporter Mark Caro's attempt to peel back the flip top and inhale the fizz of pop culture. Or something like that. You can read what Mark has been writing in the newspaper right here.